Pregnant women will soon be able to choose midwives to deliver their babies without having to pay for the service themselves.
The province announced, on Thursday, that starting April 1, 2009 midwifery services will be covered by health care.
"This decision will provide better access and more choice for expectant women and will relieve pressure on doctors, nurses and hospitals," says Ron Liepert, the minister of health and wellness.
On average, Alberta women are currently paying $3,500 to have a midwife oversee their labour and delivery.
The new funding means women will be able to access midwifery services in hospitals, community birthing centres or their homes.
The initiative will cost $4-million for the first year it is implemented.
